Apple Smoothie Recipes and Nutrition

When summer winds down and the temperatures begin to chill, that’s when I crave apples – and apple green smoothies!

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world. With over 7,500 cultivars of the apple worldwide, this has led to a huge selection of all sizes, colors and flavors. The most common apples are the sweeter varieties, but tart apples are still very popular for both eating and baking!

Apples make a good base or complementary flavoring for your smoothie (read more about how to make the perfect green smoothie with apples). Since apples are not as “creamy” in texture as a pear or mango, an apple smoothie might require slightly less water.

Apple Nutrition and Health Benefits

The challenge is getting enough apples home to make smoothies with. My son loves them right off the tree!

Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants. Studies suggest that apples may protect against osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Apples may help prevent lung, breast, colon and liver cancer. Apples have been shown to lower cholesterol, help manage diabetes, and help with weight loss. Apples are a heart-healthy food and support lung function.

The medical journal Advances In Nutritionpublished a comprehensive review of apple products and their effects on human health in the September 2011 issue that discussed these and other potential health benefits of apples.

Some studies have also shown that pregnant women who include apples in their diet have a lower risk of giving birth to children who develop asthma. Also, studies suggest that apple juice may have a protective effect against wheezing in children.

How To Select Apples

My 2-year old loves apple picking. He also loves his apple green smoothies!

Purchase apples that are in season. Apples grown in North America will be ripe and in stores from September – December.

Apples rank as the second highest for pesticide residue (93 out of 100) according to research conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). I recommend that you only use organic apples whenever possible.

The skin of apples are nutrient rich and should be included in your smoothie. Research has indicated that processing apples into commercial apple juice greatly reduced the nutrient and antioxidant levels. As always, it’s best to eat whole, fresh foods.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to be used as medical advice or to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Always work directly with a qualified medical professional before attempting to treat any illness or medical condition with diet and lifestyle, or when changing or discontinuing any prescription medications. Always check with your doctor before starting any new diet or fitness program.